Today was probably one of the best days we’ve had so far on our vision trip in Moldova. We were in the city of Chisnau and each pastor was assigned to go preach to a church. Our church was the Good Shepherd Church on the outskirts of town, led by Pastor Jurga. His wife, Oxana, led the worship and singing. It was a very young and family oriented church. We were so welcomed by this church. They took us out to lunch and we enjoyed authentic Moldovan cuisine.

We had some difficulties with the flights, but hopefully they will work out. We have been debriefed at the Baptist Union, going over some final details about partnering with churches. After the district briefing, we went  to do a bit of shopping, and that was fun! Seeing the smiling (sometimes laughing) faces of the supermarket employees, I had a blast buying some things from the clerk!

Next we traveled to our dinner and heard from some very grateful pastors and leaders in Moldova. In a sense, we were the ones learning from them. We have taken in so much information about the needs and desires of the Moldovan churches here, that it is at times overwhelming. However, God is so amazing in that He has presented some unique needs that I believe our church could assist with.

One pastor shared of how in 1975, if 24 of us would have tried to criss-cross the country seeing churches and pastors, we would have been prevented from doing so by the Communist Government, or worse. Now, the door has swung wide open for the light of the gospel to shine forth in Moldova. The exciting thing is that churches from North Carolina have a wonderful opportunity set before them. Joy fills my heart in seeing the wonderful Christ likeness of the Moldovan pastors. The humility, the vision, their hearts to see their fellow countrymen come to saving faith, is just so motivating and inspiring. It makes me think of my own attitude towards those who need Christ in my own country.

Lots to share with our church back home. So grateful for their prayers and support.